A Promising Star Faces Uncertainty
Shedeur Sanders, once considered a potential top-10 NFL Draft pick, is now surrounded by trade rumors just months after unexpectedly slipping to the fifth round. The son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders made headlines throughout the draft process — but not always for the right reasons. Now with the Cleveland Browns, his future is uncertain as the team’s quarterback depth forces tough decisions.
Shedeur Sanders’ Shocking Draft Slide
Many analysts expected Shedeur Sanders to be selected in the first or second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He had the stats, name recognition, and star power. But a combination of factors caused his stock to plummet:
- Inconsistent combine interviews
- Concerns about his leadership maturity
- Perceptions of entitlement and distractions
- Tape that showed he took too many unnecessary sacks
Ultimately, the Browns selected him with the No. 144 overall pick, trading up with the Seahawks to do so. That move raised eyebrows but also set the stage for potential value — or future drama.
Cleveland Browns’ Crowded QB Room
Sanders joined a quarterback room that was already full:
- Dillon Gabriel (3rd-round pick)
- Kenny Pickett (acquired via trade)
- Joe Flacco (signed in free agency)
This depth puts Sanders’ position at risk. The Browns are not expected to carry four QBs into the regular season, meaning one will likely be traded or released.
Why Trade Rumors Are Gaining Momentum
Trade speculation started almost immediately after the draft — and now it’s heating up as preseason looms. Here’s why:
- Sanders’ upside is still appealing, especially to QB-needy teams.
- Teams like the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts are rumored to be monitoring his status closely.
- Former Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel suggested Sanders could be a prime trade target if he performs well in preseason games.
- Some teams reportedly regret passing on him and could now try to acquire him on the cheap.
Cleveland may look to move Sanders before the season begins, especially if they believe Dillon Gabriel or a veteran backup is a better short-term fit.
What Sanders Needs to Prove in Preseason
For Sanders to secure a spot on Cleveland’s roster — or raise his trade value — he needs to shine in the preseason. Here’s what coaches and scouts will be watching:
- Pocket presence: Can he avoid sacks and make quicker decisions?
- Composure under pressure: Will he show maturity and poise in NFL-level action?
- Leadership: Is he ready to command a huddle and earn the respect of veterans?
If he checks those boxes, teams could line up to acquire him. If not, he may find himself on the outside looking in.
Possible Scenarios for Shedeur Sanders
Let’s break down the most likely outcomes heading into the 2025 NFL season:
| Scenario | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Stays with Browns | Sanders impresses in camp and earns a backup spot behind the starter. Cleveland bets on his long-term upside. |
| Traded before season | A team like the Saints or Colts offers a late-round pick for him. Browns recoup value from a crowded room. |
| Waived or released | Least likely — but possible if others outperform him and no trade market materializes. |
Time Is Ticking for Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur Sanders has talent. He has pedigree. He still has time. But none of that matters if he doesn’t deliver on the field — fast.
Cleveland’s situation is unique. They believed in Sanders enough to trade up for him. But NFL decisions are often brutal, and if he doesn’t earn his spot or raise his stock, the Browns will have to move on.
This preseason may very well define his NFL journey. Whether in Cleveland or elsewhere, Shedeur Sanders now has one goal: prove he belongs.
